Synthesis of Functionalized Graphene/Polyaniline Nanocomposites with Effective Synergistic Reinforcement on Anticorrosion

Abstract

Functionalized graphene (PGO)/polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposites with effective synergistic reinforcement on anticorrosion have been prepared via an in situ redox polymerization–dedoping technique. PGO nanosheets are obtained through the modification of graphene oxide with p -phenylenediamine to improve the dispersion stability in acidic conditions and compatibility with the polymer. Also, PGO/PANI composites are synthesized via the in situ redox polymerization of aniline. The results show that PGO is highly exfoliated and intercalated among the PANI matrix. In potentiodynamic polarization tests, the anticorrosion efficiency of the films with reinforcement of PGO/PANI composites increases from 85.16% to 99.98%. Moreover, the lowest corrosion rate is 1.68 × 10 –4 mm/year, which is much better than that with individual PGO or PANI. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, where the Warburg impedance component emerges, further reveals that well-dispersed PGO in the film can retard or defend permeation of the corrosive material from the environment.